What is chronic depression?

Starting at the most mild end of the spectrum, chronic depression, or dysthymia, generally emerges as a low mood that depresses an individual’s frame of mind over a consistent and extended period of time. The dysthymic individual can usually carry out home and work duties sufficiently, but not optimally. More severe, clinical depression often does interrupt one’s job, family and lifestyle when an individual no longer finds pleasure in activities and people he or she once enjoyed.

You may have dysthymia or clinical depression if:

You have periods of sadness, irritability or crying spells most of the time for a period of two weeks or longer.

Activities and social opportunities you once enjoyed no longer give you much pleasure.

You feel either perpetually restless or as if you're moving in slow motion.

You don't have the energy you once did. You often tell people that you're "exhausted."

You are plagued by intense feelings of low self-esteem.

You feel incredibly guilty about events or comments you are not wholly responsible for.

Chronic depression is defined as being depressed for years and may occur when a patient doesn't fully recover from a bout of depression. In this video, Tarique Perera, MD, a psychiatrist with Contemporary Care of Connecticut, describes the condition.

Continue Learning about Chronic Depression (Dysthymia)

If you feel sad every day, have low energy and trouble concentrating, you may have chronic depression. Chronic depression, also known as dysthymia or low-grade depression, is unremitting depression that lasts for at least 2 years. ...

While the symptoms of chronic depression are less severe than those of major depression, they tend to last longer, making the condition difficult to diagnose.

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Chronic Depression (Dysthymia)

If you feel sad every day, have low energy and trouble concentrating, you may have chronic depression. Chronic depression, also known as dysthymia or low-grade depression, is unremitting depression that lasts for at least 2 years. While the symptoms of chronic depression are less severe than those of major depression, they tend to last longer, making the condition difficult to diagnose.